Energy News | Calif. Leads In Clean Energy, But Challenges Loom

by LAUREN SOMMER

California has always been ahead of the curve when it comes to renewable power, and the state’s clean energy business is flourishing. One of the first large-scale wind farms in the country was built just outside the Bay Area at the Altamont Pass, and this year, California regulators are reviewing twice as many renewable power contracts as last year.

More of those projects are coming online, including a 16-acre solar farm outside of Sacramento a few weeks ago.

The reason for this boom has to do with ambitious clean energy goals the state announced in 2002. But reaching those goals is proving to be a challenge.

Aiming Too High?

California’s long-term goal is for utilities is get one-third of their electricity from renewable sources by 2020. In the short term, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger wants that number to be 20 percent by the end of this year.

“California is a world leader in protecting the environment and in fighting global warming, and we have done an extraordinary job — not only for California but also inspiring other states and other nations to do exactly the same,” Schwarzenegger said when announcing the 33 percent goal two years ago.

California isn’t expected to meet its short-term goal, though it is estimated that the state will clock in close to their target at around 18 to 19 percent. Thanks to a three-year grace period, the state’s utilities won’t be penalized for being a year or two behind.

But many believe the governor’s goal for 2020 will be even harder to hit. According to the California Public Utilities Commission, it will require an unprecedented effort — at least a doubling of transmission lines and a doubling of renewable energy, thanks to a growing energy appetite.

“I think a lot of people have doubts about whether or not the utilities can do it,” says Tom Bottorff, a senior vice president at PG&E Corporation. “I’m in the camp that believes that it’s feasible and doable, and we’re working very hard to make sure that happens.”

Listen to the story on NPR.org and check back for more parts in the series!